Emphasizing the Honor Code

The Honor Code that governs Davidson's social and academic life demands commitment to the highest personal and community values. We place a high value on the Code, as it ensures academic integrity and provides the open environment in which we live and study. We urge you to give thoughtful consideration to the Honor Code when applying for admission.

Far from being mere pen-and-ink statements, the codes are a declaration by our entire college community-students, faculty, staff, and alumni-that the honorable course is the most just, and therefore the best. By forming a basis for campus life, the Honor Code engenders an atmosphere of openness and mutual trust.

The Davidson College Honor Code

Every student shall be honor bound to refrain from cheating (including plagiarism). Every student shall be honor bound to refrain from stealing. Every student shall be honor bound to refrain from lying about college business. Every student shall be honor bound to report immediately all violations of the Honor Code of which the student has first-hand knowledge; failure to do so shall be a violation of the Honor Code. Every student found guilty of a violation shall ordinarily be dismissed from the College. Every member of the college community is expected to be familiar with the operation of the Honor Code. Read more about the Honor Code and its impact on the Davidson community.

The Honor Code on Campus

The Honor Code brings a special freedom to campus life. Every student has agreed in writing to abide by the Honor Code and the system of discipline it requires. Tests, often called "reviews" at Davidson, and examinations are not proctored, and professors readily assign take-home tests. Final examinations are self-scheduled, so that you may prepare for and take them in your preferred sequence.

The system allows students, faculty, and staff to have mutual confidence in each other's words and actions. This atmosphere is self-perpetuating and enables us to live and learn together more easily.

Violations

From time to time violations of the Honor Code commitment do occur. These are taken seriously; each case is heard and judged promptly by students elected to the Honor Council by their peers.